What Is the Right SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Des Moines, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electric costs.

However, there are a lot of varying options on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number typically is accompanied by a higher price tag. So, how do you know which one is best for your house?

At Heartland Heating & Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 515-344-3579. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your energy bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at minimum 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER number is, you can check the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 515-344-3579 for help.

If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly evolved in the past few years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on utility bills, as the thermostat can seamlessly adjust your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual utility bills. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement means the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference repaid over the years through smaller power bills. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and higher, consume about 8% less energy than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at different speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your cooling expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to send cold air throughout your home. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Heartland Heating & Cooling are ready to assist you. Reach us at 515-344-3579 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.